Ted Stevens officially defeated

I suppose it wasn't the present Ted Stevens was hoping for on his birthday, but it feels like a gift to the rest of America. The Alaskan recount process finally proceeded to the point where Democrat Mark Begich can be declared the winner of the hotly contested senatorial race. Frankly, knowing a few Alaskans personally, I can't believe it was as close as it was, meaning how embarrassing is it to vote for a convicted felon. But then again it is a red state and Stevens did have the kind of seniority that delivers the prime federal pork. I assume a lot of those voters depend on the handouts to make a living.

In any event, Begich becomes the first Democratic Senator from Alaska since Mike Gravel held the seat and we will be blessedly spared from any further speculation about Sarah Palin moving to the national stage via that route. Win - win.